Bryce Dallas Howard's New "Twilight" Role Was Meant to Be

Director of the "Twilight" series films Catherine Hardwicke told the Los Angeles Times at the "Teen Choice Awards" that Bryce Dallas Howard was initially who they had in mind to play the redhead vampire Victoria.

At the time, the role may have been too small for Howard so it went to Rachelle Lefevre, a lesser-known newcomer.

Howard has since replaced Lefevre for the third film in the series. Hardwicke said she was not involved in the casting negotiations that led to the replacement, which supposedly occurred due to scheduling conflicts.

Lefevre, however, said she was "stunned" and "saddened" to be replaced in the third installment of the series, "Eclipse."

"I was fully committed to the 'Twilight' saga, and to the portrayal of Victoria," Lefevre said in a statement to Access Hollywood. "I turned down several other film opportunities and, in accordance with my contractual rights, accepted only roles that would involve very short shooting schedules."

The statement went on to say, "Given the length of filming for 'Eclipse,' never did I fathom I would lose the role over a 10 day overlap. I was happy with my contract with Summit and was fully prepared to continue to honor it. Summit chose simply to recast the part."